Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt? Current Expert Advice

Bassyonni

Published: March 3, 2026 3:08 AM ET

As a popular travel destination, Egypt attracts millions of tourists every year. Known for its year-round sun and rich historical sites, Egypt offers something for everyone. However, safety concerns often arise due to regional tensions, particularly in the Middle East.

Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt? Current Expert Advice

Despite regional conflicts, the UK Foreign Office currently considers most tourist areas in Egypt safe for travel. Destinations include:

Cairo
Sharm el-Sheikh
Marsa Alam
Hurghada
Luxor
Aswan

Travel Warnings and Restrictions

The Foreign Office has established certain no-go areas that travelers should avoid:

North Sinai, including areas near the Gaza border
Western Desert region bordering Libya
Areas within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border

While key tourist spots are deemed safe, travelers should remain vigilant and monitor local news for updates on the evolving situation. Regional tensions may lead to occasional travel disruptions.

Flight Operations and Cancellations

Flights between the UK and Egypt continue to operate, although some may experience delays or cancellations. This stems from the temporary closure of airspace in neighboring countries affected by conflict. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates before heading to the airport.

Refund Policies for Canceled Trips

If airlines cancel flights due to geopolitical circumstances, passengers are entitled to full refunds. However, if travelers decide not to go to Egypt despite it being classified as safe, standard booking conditions apply, and refunds may not be guaranteed.

General Safety Considerations for Tourists

Egypt remains generally safe for tourists. Important precautions include:

Stay vigilant in crowded places, and avoid political gatherings.
Secure your belongings to prevent theft.
Follow local customs regarding conduct and photography.

Specific Locations of Interest

Cairo

While busy and bustling, travel to Cairo is not advised against. Tourists should be cautious about petty crime.

Sharm el-Sheikh

Known for its beautiful resorts, Sharm el-Sheikh invites about ten million visitors annually. The area has enhanced security since its reopening to British tourists in 2019.

Hurghada

Similar security measures are in place in Hurghada, famous for its diving and water sports activities. Visitors can enjoy these pastimes with relative peace of mind.

Female and LGBT Traveler Considerations

While Egypt is generally safe for female travelers, caution is advised, especially in taxis and public transport. Reports of harassment exist, so staying alert is paramount.

LGBT travelers should exercise discretion. Though homosexuality is not illegal, societal attitudes may lead to challenges, particularly regarding public displays of affection.

Travel Entry Requirements

For entry into Egypt, travelers need:

A passport valid for at least six months
A tourist visa, available online or upon arrival (with specific conditions for some resort areas)

In summary, while Egypt remains an enticing destination, prospective travelers should stay informed about current conditions and adhere to travel advisories.